I can’t say this was necessarily the best, but it’s the one that’s stayed with me for more than fifty years. In junior high (now known as middle school) I wore my hair like everyone else did in those days–straight, long and parted down the middle. Looking back, it was hardly the most flattering fashion, on me and most others. But that was the style.
One Christmas vacation, for reasons I can’t remember, I decided I wanted bangs. I was pleased with the result and looked forward to showing off my new hair style when I got back to school. Unfortunately, most of my friends either didn’t like it or didn’t care and said nothing. But one boy did.
“I like your bangs,” he told me. “It makes your face look less round.”
I never was quite sure that my bangs really did make my face look less round, but a boy had noticed my hair. Not a boy I was particularly interested in, but one whom I wouldn’t have expected a compliment from.
I’m not naming him, even with a pseudonym. It took me years to realize he was interested in more than my hair. He liked me. I was shy and decidely not popular, he was outgoing and quite a hit with everyone. Unfortunately, by the time I recognized his interest, I was in my 30s and hadn’t seen him in more than fifteen years.
But back to my hair. From that time in seventh grade until now I’ve always worn bangs. Not so much because a boy said he liked it, but because he was right. Bangs do look better on me.
So from me to this unnamed boy (now both senior citizens, good grief): thank you. And I’m sorry I didn’t see you for who you really were.
Image Credit: Header © Felippe Lopes–stock.adobe.com
My World With Words 
What a sweet and relatable story. I can see why that comment stuck with you. It’s hard to see anyone for who they are in middle school.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Yeah, it made a difference for me, and I wish I could let him know it.
LikeLiked by 2 people
This was very touching, Belinda. Thank you for sharing – it brought back many memories for me about Junior High! Even though that guy doesn’t know what a difference his compliment made to you, my guess is that he was a kind person throughout his life – and hopefully, appreciated.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope so. I hope he had people in his life who supported and appreciated him.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Belinda, it’s always the little things that resonate for life. It’s amazing we don’t see the importance until years later. I’ve had a number of those instances as well. I like bangs, and he was right. Bangs look great on you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! You’re right, the little things mean a lot.
LikeLike